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History

“An organization must have a reasonable basis for it’s beginning if it is to continue to exist and be of some service in the business life of today.”

These words are as true today as they were in 1952 when they were written by members of the Toronto Craftsmen’s Club in a booklet called “Craftsmanship in Retrospect” which documented the humble beginning of the Toronto Craftsmen’s Club.

The document went on to state that, “No organization or trade or profession can afford to stand still and refuse to progress or advance in the knowledge that is vital to its very existence.” Certainly, with the more rapid pace of technological change experienced in recent years, this wisdom documented half a century ago may be even more relevant today, than ever before.

Perry Long, the first International Charter President (1919 –1921) contacted a member of the Toronto printing industry, Howard Hoops Sr., to announce that he would be in Toronto on one Sundaymorning in 1919, and asked him to invite printing plant superintendents and others who may be interested, to meet and discuss what Craftsmanship really meant to those in the industry.

Since then, “Share your Knowledge” has been the guiding principle for Toronto Craftsmen, and indeed Craftsmen from all around the world.

On April 4, 1921, Perry Long returned to Toronto to issue the Toronto Club it’s international charter at a ceremony at the King Edward Hotel. The founding executive included:

Toronto went on to become the third largest chapter in the International Club of Printing House Craftsmen.

Over the past 89 years, Toronto has remained an active, and passionate supporter of the International association. Toronto is proud of it’s many contributions, including having developed and promoted several local members into International roles, notably two who went on to hold the role of International President, andone who ultimately held the role of International Chairman.

Toronto has also proudly hosted several International conventions over the years, which has provided an opportunity for the club to showcase its city, and the members of the Toronto printing industry to the Internal association.